Rahul Gandhi Advocates for Dalit Empowerment Within Congress

In a recent address, Rahul Gandhi highlighted the pivotal role of Dalits within the Congress party, attributing the rise of caste-based regional parties to the party's historical policies. He praised Kanshi Ram for uniting the Dalit community and expressed concerns over the BJP's attempts to undermine Dalit rights. Gandhi's acknowledgment of past oversights regarding the OBC community reflects a strategic move to strengthen Congress's position among marginalized groups. With upcoming elections, he is actively engaging Dalit voters, showcasing his commitment to their rights and representation.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2026, 15:42 IST

Strengthening Dalit Representation in Congress

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized the importance of Dalits taking on a central role within the party, attributing the rise of caste-based regional parties to Congress's past policies. Speaking at a meeting of the Scheduled Caste department at the Congress headquarters on January 26, he remarked that had the party implemented adequate measures for Dalits during the 1980s and 90s, the emergence of these regional parties would have been unlikely, and Dalits would not have been drawn towards them.

Praise for Kanshi Ram and Concerns Over Dalit Rights

According to sources present at the meeting, Gandhi commended Kanshi Ram, the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party, for his efforts in uniting the Dalit community and instilling confidence among its members. He expressed concerns that the BJP is attempting to dismantle regional parties and infringe upon Dalit rights, leading to an increase in atrocities against Dalits. Gandhi reiterated Congress's commitment to safeguarding Dalit rights and fulfilling the dreams of Babasaheb Ambedkar, asserting that Dalits will play a crucial role in the party.

Acknowledgment of Past Oversights

A year ago, Rahul Gandhi publicly acknowledged Congress's neglect of the OBC community and apologized for it. He has now expressed similar sentiments regarding the Dalit community. Through these initiatives, he appears to be reinforcing Congress's position among Dalit and backward communities. During recent Lok Sabha elections, he held rallies showcasing the Constitution, claiming that it is under threat during the Modi administration.

Strategic Moves to Engage Dalit Voters

This strategy is believed to have played a significant role in enhancing the electoral prospects of Congress and the India alliance among Dalit voters. Gandhi has also advocated for a caste census for the OBC category. As a result of these efforts, the number of Congress seats in the Lok Sabha has doubled. With the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections approaching, Gandhi is intensifying his outreach to Dalit and backward classes. Last week, he unveiled a statue of Dalit freedom fighter Veer Pasi in his Raebareli constituency and addressed a gathering of the Bahujan community.

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